Window covering sizing method and apparatus

ABSTRACT

A method and apparatus for cutting a vertical window covering are disclosed. One method of operating a window covering cutting machine comprises retaining a window covering in a package such that a first end of the window covering is located at a known first position relative to the package. An engagement element is provided on the package that is located at a known second position on the package. The engagement element is moved a distance from a saw to obtain a final dimension of the window covering where the distance is calculated using the first position and the second position.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of copending U.S. application application Ser. No. 12/164,839, filed on Jun. 30, 2008, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) from provisional patent application No. 60/962,646, filed Jul. 31, 2007, and provisional patent application No. 61/010,291, filed Jan. 7, 2008, by the inventors hereof, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

It will be appreciated that window coverings come in a variety of materials including wood, plastic, fabric, vinyl and aluminum and a variety of styles including horizontal blinds, vertical blinds, woven shades, pleated shades, Roman shades and cellular blinds. Window coverings are sold as stock, custom and cut-to-size or size-in-store. Stock window coverings are manufactured in a variety of standard widths that are intended to fit corresponding standard window sizes. Custom window coverings are manufactured to specified dimensions per a customer's specific request. Cut-to-size or size-in-store window coverings are manufactured in a limited number of sizes that are intended to be used with a wide range of window sizes. A cutting machine is provided at the retail outlet that cuts the window covering from the manufactured or stock size to the customer's desired size. The cutting machine is operated by the retail outlet personnel. Operator error is possible because the process requires accuracy in both the measurement and alignment of the blind in the machine. Further, even if the blinds are cut correctly the process consumes valuable personnel time.

SUMMARY

A method and apparatus for cutting a vertical window covering are disclosed. One method of operating a window covering cutting machine comprises retaining a window covering in a package such that a first end of the window covering is located at a known first position relative to the package; providing an engagement element on the package that is located at a known second position on the package; automatically moving the engagement element a distance from a saw to obtain a final dimension of the window covering where the distance is calculated using the first position and the second position.

The first position may a distance C from a first end of the package. The second position may be spaced a known distance Z from the first end of the package. The distance C and the distance Z may be obtained from a look-up table. The look-up table may be accessed using a bar code that identifies a type of window covering. The distance may be calculated according to the following equation: final dimension−Z+C. The engagement element may be a hole. A drawer having a surface and being movable between an open position and a closed position may be provided. The drawer may be moved between an open position and a closed position. When the drawer is in the open position, the window covering may be located in the drawer with the engagement element in a known position relative to the surface. The final dimension of the window covering may be received. The window covering may be moved such that the known second position of the window covering is positioned the distance from the saw. The window covering may be engaged by a saw. The step of locating may comprise locating the window covering relative to a second engagement member that extends from the surface. Prior to the step of automatically moving, said second engagement member may be retracted. The window covering in the drawer may be allowed to extend off one end of the drawer. The window covering may be identified as a head rail or a vane. The window covering and the package may be cut simultaneously. The step of automatically moving may use an iterative process.

An apparatus for cutting a window covering comprises a lateral support surface and a saw for cutting the window covering positioned at a first end of the lateral support surface. An engagement member locates the window covering and is retractably mounted on the lateral support surface at a location offset from the center of the lateral support surface. A clamp assembly comprises a clamping jaw movable to press the window covering against the lateral support surface. The clamp assembly is movable relative to the saw. A controller moves the clamp assembly to automatically position a first end of the window covering relative to the saw.

The engagement member may be movable between an extend position where it projects beyond the lateral surface and a retracted position where it is disposed behind the lateral surface. The lateral support surface may be mounted on a drawer movable between a first open position and a second closed position. The engagement member may comprise a pin that engages a mating hole where the hole is offset from a longitudinal center of the window covering. A platform may support the window covering in the drawer. The clamp assembly may be mounted for movement with the drawer. The lateral support surface may comprise a plurality of rollers. A clamp may be located adjacent the saw for holding the window covering when the saw cuts the window covering. Product identification information in the form of a bar code may be associated with the window covering.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the SIS machine of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective back view of the embodiment of the SIS machine of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 3 and 4 are perspective views of a saw used in the SIS machine of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing details of the SIS machine of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 6 and 7 are perspective back views of the embodiment of the SIS machine of FIG. 1 with the outer casing removed.

FIG. 8 is a back view of the embodiment of the SIS machine of FIG. 1 with the outer casing removed.

FIG. 9 is a bottom view of the embodiment of the SIS machine of FIG. 1 with the outer casing removed.

FIG. 10 is a left side view of the embodiment of the SIS machine of FIG. 1 with the outer casing removed.

FIG. 11 is a right side view of the embodiment of the SIS machine of FIG. 1 with the outer casing removed.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a saw of the embodiment of the SIS machine of FIG. 1.

FIG. 13 is a perspective front view of the SIS machine of FIG. 1 with the casing removed.

FIG. 14 is a top view of the SIS machine of FIG. 1 with the cutting chamber removed.

FIGS. 15-17 are perspective views of an embodiment of the clamp assembly used in the SIS machine of FIG. 1.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing an alternate embodiment of the clamp assembly used in the SIS machine of FIG. 1.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of the operating system of the SIS machine.

FIG. 20 is a block diagram of another embodiment of the operating system of the SIS machine.

FIGS. 21A-21G are views showing the positioning and cutting operations.

FIGS. 22A-22D are views showing an alternate embodiment of the positioning and cutting operations.

FIGS. 23A and 23B are views showing another embodiment of the positioning and cutting operations.

FIGS. 24A-24D are block diagrams illustrating an embodiment of the operation of the SIS machine.

FIG. 25 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the operation of the SIS machine.

FIG. 26 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the positioning and cutting operation.

FIG. 27 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the verification process.

FIGS. 28A and 28B are block diagrams illustrating an embodiment of the operation of an ordering system.

FIGS. 29A and 29B are block diagrams illustrating an embodiment of the operation of an ordering system.

FIG. 30 shows part of the ordering system of FIGS. 12A and 12B.

FIG. 31 is a block diagram illustrating the system for measuring the dimensions of an architectural feature.

FIG. 32 is a block diagram illustrating another embodiment of the operation of an ordering system.

FIG. 33 is a block diagram illustrating yet another embodiment of the operation of an ordering system.

FIGS. 34 through 42 are sample screen shots that may be displayed on the user interface during the cutting operation.

FIG. 43 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the SIS machine.

FIGS. 44, 45A and 45B show one operation of the SIS machine of FIG. 43.

FIGS. 46 and 47 show another operation of the SIS machine of the invention.

FIGS. 48A through 48I show yet another operation of the SIS machine of the invention.

FIG. 49 is a block diagram illustrating an operation of the SIS machine of the invention.

FIG. 50 is a block diagram illustrating another operation of the SIS machine of the invention.

FIG. 51 is a block diagram illustrating yet another operation of the SIS machine of the invention.

FIG. 52 is a front view of the SIS machine of FIG. 43.

FIG. 53 is a top view of the SIS machine of FIG. 43.

FIG. 54 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a dust control system.

FIG. 55 is a top view of the SIS machine of FIG. 43 with the drawer in an open position.

FIG. 56 is a perspective view of the SIS machine of FIG. 43 showing the drawer structure.

FIG. 57 is a perspective view of the drawer of the SIS machine of FIG. 43.

FIG. 58 is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of a package packed with a window covering usable in the SIS machine.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7, the size-in-store (SIS) machine 1 comprises an internal frame 2 that supports the cutting, measuring and operating systems of the SIS machine. An outer housing 4 is provided to cover the internal mechanisms of the SIS machine. An opening 5 is provided to allow access to the interior cutting chamber 8 of the apparatus to allow a user to place window coverings into and remove window coverings from the SIS machine. Opening 5 is covered by a door 6 that isolates the cutting chamber 8 from the exterior of the machine. The door 6 may comprise a transparent window 10 to allow a user to observe the cutting and measuring operations. The door 6 is movably supported at either end by tracks 12 positioned at either end of the opening 5. In one embodiment a drive 15 such as a rack and pinion is used to automatically slide the door 6 in tracks 12 between open and closed positions. Other mechanisms such as pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders, a rotary motor or the like may be used to open and close the door 6. Further, the door 6 may be hinged rather than sliding. The door may also be opened and closed manually. Sensors 16 such as limit switches, optical sensors, pressure sensitive switches or the like may be provided to detect if the door 6 is closed and to transmit a signal to the operating system indicating the door's status. The operating system may prevent operation of the SIS machine if the door 6 is not closed.

A platform 20 that supports the window covering during the measuring and cutting operations is provided in cutting chamber 8 adjacent to opening 5 such that a user can place a window covering on the platform 20 when the door 6 is open. The platform 20 comprises a substantially horizontal surface that is dimensioned to be able to receive and support a range of blind sizes.

In one embodiment, a separate access opening 22 is provided on one side wall 24 of housing 4 such that a blind may be loaded through access opening 22 into cutting chamber 8 from the end of the machine rather than through door 6. Opening 22 is useful for window coverings that are longer than the length of the SIS machine. For example, opening 22 may be used to load the vanes of a vertical blind into the machine because such vanes may be manufactured in relatively long lengths that cannot be accommodated through opening 5. One end of the vanes can be inserted through the access opening 22 with the other end of the vanes extending from the housing 4 through opening 22. Alternatively a feed tube or other conveyor may be provided that communicates with opening 22 and allows the window covering to be inserted into the machine remotely. The ends of the vanes located in the cutting chamber 8 can then be cut to length as will hereinafter be described.

Referring to FIGS. 2, 5, 8 and 15-17, located along the front edge of the cutting chamber 8 adjacent to the front edge of platform 20 is a lateral support surface 28 that in the illustrated embodiment is defined by a plurality of rollers 26. The lateral support surface 28 facilitates the movement of the window covering across the platform 20 during the measuring and cutting operations. During the measuring and cutting operations, the window covering is pressed against the lateral support surface 28 and slid across the platform 20 as will hereinafter be described. The use of the rollers 26 facilitates the sliding movement of the window covering on platform 20. The rollers 26 may be eliminated and replaced by a stationary vertical wall where the window covering is pressed against and slides along the stationary wall. The wall may comprise a low friction surface. Further, another low friction device may be used in place of the rollers or wall if desired. For example, a movable belt, a plurality of bearings or other low friction surface or device may comprise the lateral support surface 28.

An alternate embodiment of the SIS machine is shown in FIGS. 43, 52, 53 and 55 through 57 where like reference numerals are used to identify like components described with reference to the embodiment of FIG. 1. The SIS machine comprises an internal frame that supports the cutting, measuring and operating systems of the SIS machine. An outer housing 4 is provided to cover the internal mechanisms of the SIS machine. An opening 4405 is provided in the front of the housing 4 to allow access to the interior cutting chamber 8 of the apparatus. Cutting chamber 8 may be covered by a transparent window 4309 to allow a user to observe the cutting and measuring operations.

A drawer 4302 is movably mounted in the opening 4305 such that it can be moved horizontally between an open position (FIGS. 55 and 56) and a closed position (FIGS. 43, 52 and 53). The drawer 4302 comprises a platform 20 for supporting the window covering during the positioning and cutting operation and a front wall 4306 that closes the opening 4305 when the drawer 4302 is in the closed position to isolate the cutting chamber 8 from the external environment. The front wall 4306 also supports the lateral support surface 4328. The lateral support surface 4328 may comprise the plurality of rollers 4326 or other low friction devices for facilitating the movement of the window covering across the platform 20 during the measuring and cutting operations. When the drawer is in the open position the user may place a window covering on platform 20 and close the drawer to move the platform 20 and window covering into cutting chamber 8. When the drawer 4302 is closed, the cutting chamber 8 in the embodiment of FIG. 43 is configured substantially the same as the cutting chamber 8 in the embodiment of FIG. 1.

One side wall of the housing 4 includes a cut-out area or opening 4322 at one end of the opening 4305 adjacent the platform 20 to accommodate window coverings which are longer than the machine. Referring to FIGS. 46, 47 and 56, for example, vertical window coverings may be manufactured in lengths that are longer than the length of opening 4305 or machine 1. The cut-out area or opening 4322 is open towards the front of the SIS machine and is positioned such that a window covering supported on platform 20 may extend out of opening 4322. To accommodate a long window covering the window covering is placed on the platform 20 by inserting the window covering through opening 4323 (FIG. 57) such that it extends off of the end of the platform 20 to the side having opening 4322. When the drawer 4302 is closed the long window covering resting on platform 20 extends out of the machine through the opening 4322 and is positioned between the opening 4322 and the front wall 4306 of drawer 4302. Opening 4322 may be covered by a movable door 4323 that is opened to allow access to opening 4322.

Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, 6, 8, 10-12 and 14, located at either end of platform 20 are cutting devices such as saws 30 and 32 for cutting the window covering to the desired size. The saws 30 and 32 are substantially identical such that specific reference will be made to saw 30. Saw 30 comprises a saw motor 34 for rotating the arbor 38 on which the saw blade 36 is mounted. The motor 34 is connected to the saw arbor 38 via a transmission. The motor 34, transmission and arbor 38 are mounted on a platform 40 that is in turn supported on rails 42. The rails 42 support platform 40 such that platform 40 can reciprocate transversely to the platform 20 to bring the saw blade 36 into contact with a window covering supported on and extending over the end of platform 20. Platform 40 moves saw blade 36 through the window covering to cut the window covering. The saws may be replaced by other cutting devices. For example, die cutters or lasers may be used to make the cut. Moreover, a combination of cutting devices may be used depending on the window covering material, material thickness or the like.

To move platform 40, a drive 43 is provided. Drive 43 may comprise a motor 44 that is supported on the platform 40 and that rotates a pinion 46 that engages a rack 48 mounted on frame 2. When the motor 44 is actuated, the pinion 46 is rotated and through its engagement with the rack 48 reciprocates platform 40 on rails 42 toward and away from the window covering.

In one embodiment, two saw blades 36 and 36 a are provided with each of saws 30 and 32 to minimize routine maintenance of the machine. A saw blade has a limited life span such that after a predetermined amount of use the blade must be replaced. If only one saw blade is provided on each saw, more maintenance of the SIS machine is required. To minimize the routine maintenance of the SIS machine, two blades may be provided on each saw where the blades may be changed automatically.

Referring to FIGS. 3, 8, 12 and 14, in such a two blade arrangement, each saw comprises a motor 34 for driving arbors 38 and 38 a that support blades 36 and 36 a, respectively. The arbors 38 and 38 a are mounted on a housing 50 such that blades 36 and 36 a are supported in an overlapping relationship. Housing 50 can pivot on an axle 51 relative to the platform 40 about an axis parallel to the arbors 38 and 38 a. The housing 50 is shown in a first orientation where blade 36 is positioned to cut a window covering and blade 36 a is positioned as a replacement blade. The housing 50 is maintained in the illustrated position by a locking mechanism 56 that locks the housing 50 relative to the platform 40. In one embodiment the locking mechanism 56 comprises a retractable post where the post is extended from the platform 40 to engage a mating receptacle on the housing 50 to lock the housing 50 relative to the platform 40. To unlock the housing 50, the post 56 is retracted from the receptacle allowing the housing 50 to rotate on axle 51. A pair of stops 62 and 64 comprising bumpers 52 and 54 and sensors 58 and 60 ensure that the housing 50 assumes the correct orientation as will hereinafter be described. Sensors 58 and 60 may comprise limit switches, optical sensors, pressure sensitive switches or any other sensor capable of sensing the orientation of housing 50 and generating a signal indicative of the orientation. The stops 62 and 64 are movably mounted such that each stop can be extended from or retracted into the platform 40.

To explain the operation of the saw assembly, assume that the blades 36 and 36 a and housing 50 are initially oriented as shown in FIGS. 3 and 12. Blade 36 cuts the window coverings as will hereinafter be described. Each cut is counted and the total number of cuts is stored in the memory of the operating system. When the total number of cuts equals a predetermined maximum number of cuts, blade 36 is replaced. The predetermined maximum number of cuts will depend on the blade construction and the material being cut, however, the predetermined maximum number of cuts is preferably selected such that the blade is replaced before wear on the blade degrades its cutting performance. When the total number of actual cuts equals the predetermined number of cuts, the locking mechanism 56 is withdrawn from the housing 50 thereby allowing the housing to freely rotate relative to platform 40. Simultaneously with the unlocking of the housing 50, the first stop 62 is retracted into housing 50 and the second stop 64 is extended from housing 50. The saw blades 36 and 36 a, spinning on arbors 38 and 38 a, create enough inertia that the housing 50 rotates on the support axle 51 when the locking mechanism 56 is retracted without the use of any other drive mechanism. The housing 50 rotates until a flange 66 on the housing contacts stop 64. In this position, the saw blade housing 50 has rotated 180 degrees and is oriented such that the second blade 36 a is positioned to cut the window covering and the first saw blade 36 is in the reserve position. Sensor 60, associated with stop 64, produces a signal indicating that housing 50 has rotated to the new position. The signal from sensor 60 is transmitted to the CPU and the locking mechanism 56 is actuated to lock housing 50 in the new position. The total number of cuts are counted and maintained in memory for the new blade 36 a. Both blades 36 and 36 a may be replaced during a single service visit when the second blade reaches a predetermined maximum number of cuts.

Because the saw blades are positioned in an overlapping relationship, the operating system that controls the measuring and cutting operations must be informed as to which blade is in the cutting position. The sensors 58 and 60 associated with the stops 62 and 64 provide this information to the operating system by transmitting a signal to the CPU when the housing 50 contacts the stop. The operating system then adjusts the measuring and cutting operations to account for the difference in saw blade positions.

In an alternate embodiment, the saw blades 36 and 36 a are positioned such that the blades are in the same cutting plane. In such an arrangement the operating system does not adjust the cutting operation based on which blade is being used. However, such an arrangement requires additional space because the coplanar blades require more room than the overlapping blades shown in the drawings. In either arrangement the sensors 58 and 60 associated with the stops 62 and 64 may be used to provide feed back to the CPU that the blades are properly positioned.

Referring to FIGS. 5, 12, 15-17 and 57, a clamp assembly 80 is provided that comprises a clamping jaw 82 that can be extended and retracted to trap a window covering against the lateral supporting surface 28, 4328. Jaw 82 is supported for reciprocating linear movement on a bar or bearing 83 that rides on rails or bearings 86 where jaw 82 is moved over the rails 86 by a drive 87 such as a pneumatic cylinder, electric motor, solenoid, hydraulic cylinder or the like. The drive 87 may also comprise a rack and pinion or ball screw drive or the like. The jaw 82 may be extended to clamp a window covering against the lateral supporting surface 28, 4328 and retracted to release the window covering. FIG. 57 shows the clamp assembly 80 for the embodiment of the SIS machine shown in FIG. 43. The clamp assembly in this embodiment is substantially the same as in the embodiment of FIGS. 5, 12 and 15-18 except that the clamp assembly 80 is mounted on the drawer 4302 such that the clamp assembly moves with the drawer.

The clamp assembly 80 is mounted on a carriage 88 that is mounted on a linear drive such as a ball screw drive or rack and pinion. Rotation of pinion (not shown) engages rack 93 to reciprocate the carriage 88 along the length of platform 20. In one embodiment the pinion or other drive mechanism is rotated by a stepper motor or servomotor 91 such that the position of the carriage 88 and clamp assembly 80 along the platform 20 can be controlled with great accuracy. Each rotation of the stepper motor or servomotor 91 translates into a predetermined length of linear travel of the clamp assembly 80 along the platform 20. The rotation of the stepper motor or servomotor 91 can be precisely controlled to precisely control the linear motion of the clamp assembly 80 and its position along platform 20. In one embodiment, the carriage 88 supports sensor 92 such as an optical sensor. In one embodiment sensor 92 is used to measure and position the window covering relative to the saws 36 and 36 a as will hereinafter be described.

An alternate embodiment of the clamp assembly is shown in FIG. 18 at 280 that is similar to clamping jaw 80 as previously described. Clamp assembly 280 is provided that comprises a clamping jaw 282 that can be extended and retracted to trap a window covering against the lateral supporting surface 28. Jaw 282 is supported for reciprocating linear movement as previously described. The jaw 282 may be extended to clamp a window covering against the lateral supporting surface 28 and retracted to release the window covering as previously described. The clamp assembly 280 is mounted on a carriage 88 that is mounted on a linear drive as previously described to reciprocate the carriage 88 along the length of platform 20.

In order to position the window covering relative to the clamping jaw 282, clamping jaw 282 is provided with a physical engagement member such as pin 285. The position of the pin 285 relative to the clamping jaw 282 is known. For example pin 285 may be located in the center of clamping jaw 282. The window covering and package are provided with a hole 201 located on the window covering 200 (FIGS. 23A and 23B). The window covering 200 is inserted into the SIS machine and placed on platform 20 such that the pin 285 is inserted into the hole 201 in the window covering. As a result, the position of the window covering 200 relative to the clamping jaw 282 is known. In one embodiment the hole in the window covering is located at the center of the window covering such that the pin locates the center of the window covering such that the center of the window covering is known to the SIS machine. Where the pin 285 is located on the center of the clamping jaw 282, the clamping jaw 282 is also aligned with the center of the window covering.

In an alternate embodiment, a locating pin is located on the machine housing rather than on the clamping jaw 282. Referring to FIGS. 44, 45, 55 and 56 the first engagement element comprises a pin 4402 mounted on the lateral support surface 4328 of the drawer 4302. The pin 4402 projects from the lateral support surface 4328 at the center of the platform. The pin 4402 is movable between an extended position where it extends beyond the lateral support surface 4328 (e.g. beyond rollers 4326) and can engage a window covering and a retracted position where it is positioned behind the lateral support surface 4328 (e.g. behind rollers 4326). The pin 4402 may be moved by a solenoid or other similar drive 4404. The drive 4404 is controlled by the PC to selectively and automatically extend and retract the pin 4402. The pin 4402 engages a mating engagement element in the form of alignment hole 201 formed on the package and/or window covering 200 that closely receives pin 4402. The alignment hole 201 is located at the center of the package and window covering and locates the window covering in a known position on the platform 20.

To initiate the cutting operation, the drive 4404 is activated to extend pin 4402 beyond lateral support surface 4328 (Block 4901). The user opens drawer 4302 (Block 4902) and places the window covering on the platform 20 such that the center pin 4402 extends into the centrally located hole 201 on the package/window covering (Block 4903). The drawer 4302 is closed by the user (Block 4904). When the cutting operation is initiated, the clamp assembly 80 and clamping jaw 82 are positioned at the center position of the platform 20 and the window covering is centered relative to the clamping jaw 82 by the pin 4402. The clamping jaw 82 is extended to force the window covering against the lateral support surface 4328 (Block 4905). The pin 4402 is then retracted from the window covering by drive 4404 (Block 4906).

The various sensors described herein transmit signals to the CPU of the system operating system to control operation of the SIS machine. Further, the various drives described herein are controlled by the CPU to position and cut the window covering. The CPU may be located in the machine 1 or it may be located remotely from the machine.

Referring to FIG. 19, one embodiment of the operating system of the SIS machine 1 includes a computing platform 100. The platform is controlled by a processor 102 which serves as the central processing unit (CPU) for the platform. Memory 104 is typically divided into multiple types of memory or memory areas such as read-only memory (ROM), and random access memory (RAM). A plurality of general-purpose adapters, 106 are present. At least one, in this example, serves to connect the computing platform to a network 108. The network might be a corporate intranet, a local area network (LAN), the public switched telephone network, a wireless network, the internet or a combination of such networks. Computer program code instructions for implementing the appropriate applications and controlling the SIS machine are stored on the fixed medium 110. When the system is operating, the instructions are partially loaded into memory 104 and executed by the CPU 102. Numerous types of general purpose computer systems and workstations are available and can be used to implement computing platform 100. Available systems include those that run operating systems such as Windows™ by Microsoft, various versions of UNIX™, various versions of Linux™, and various versions of Apple's Mac™ OS. A user interface 112 such as a touch screen and/or audio speakers is provided to receive input from the user and to display output to the user. Other user interface devices may be used such as voice recognition, wireless communication technology, joy sticks, video displays, monitors, keyboards, thumbwheels or the like. User interface 112 is intended to include any apparatus that allows the user to input data to the system and/or that allows the system to display information to the user.

The entire function of the invention, including the common database can be implemented in whole or in part on a single computing platform like that shown in FIG. 19. In other embodiments, however, a common database may be stored on a database server such as an SQL server. Processor 120, adapters 122, and memory 124 function similarly to those of computing platform 100. If a corporate intranet is used for connectivity, the applications or modules on computing platform 100 can be accessed from a client workstation via a web page.

A computer program which implements parts of the invention through the use of a system like that illustrated in FIG. 19 can take the form of a computer program residing on a computer usable or computer readable tangible storage medium such as a diskette. A computer program product containing the program of instructions can be supplied in such a form, and loaded on the machines involved, either directly, or over a network. The medium may also be a stream of information being retrieved when the computer program product is “downloaded” through the Internet. The computer programs can reside on any medium that can contain, store, communicate, propagate, or transport the program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. The computer-usable or computer-readable medium may be, for example but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, device, or propagation medium. Other examples of a tangible computer-readable medium would include a portable computer diskette or portable fixed disk, an optical fiber, a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), and a digital versatile disc read-only memory (DVD-ROM).

In the embodiment of FIG. 20 a processor 202 in the form of a PC and a separate PLC controller 203 associated with the drive 91 of clamp assembly 89 are used to control operation of the SIS machine to position and cut the window covering. The system of FIG. 20 is otherwise the same as the system of FIG. 19.

Operation of the SIS machine will now be described. When the machine is first powered up, the center position CP of the clamp assembly 80 relative to the cutting devices such as saws 30 and 32 may be determined. The center position CP is the point mid-way between the active blades of the two saws 30 and 32 and is shown, for example, in FIG. 21. To determine the center position, the clamp assembly 80 is moved along the platform 20 in a first direction until the clamp reaches the end of travel. The end of travel may be identified by a sensor 105 such as limit switch, optical sensor or the like. The sensor 92 mounted on the clamp assembly 80 may also be used for this function. A signal from the appropriate sensor is provided to the CPU 102 indicating that the clamp has reached the end of travel. The CPU then sends a signal to drive 89 such that the stepper motor or servomotor 91 rotates a predetermined number of rotations until the clamp assembly 80 is located in the center position CP of the platform 20. The machine is then ready to cut a window covering.

Locating the center position could also be performed other than at start up of the machine and may be performed by other processes. For example a separate centering switch may be provided that is located at the center position and that is “contacted” by the clamp assembly 80 either physically, magnetically, optically or electronically to identify the center position. Further, while in one embodiment the clamp assembly 80 operates from the center position CP of the platform 20, it is to be understood that the clamp assembly 80 could initiate the cutting operation from any start position provided that the start position is a known position relative to the blades of saws 30 and 32.

To cut a window covering, the user places a window covering 200 in the cutting chamber 8 on platform 20 (Block 701, FIG. 24A). The user may be directed where to place the window covering by visual, audio or other commands from processor 102 via user interface 112. The platform 20 may also have a visual indicator directing the user as to the proper placement of the window covering on the platform. For example, the platform 20 may include indicia such as printing indicating the proper placement of the window covering. In one embodiment, proper placement of the window covering on platform 20 results in the window covering being detected by sensor 92 (FIG. 21A). Once the window covering is properly positioned on the platform 20 a signal from sensor 92 may be transmitted to and received by the CPU indicating the presence of a window covering (Block 702). In response to this signal the CPU 102 actuates drive 15 to automatically close and lock door 6 or drawer 4302. The door 6 and drawer 4302 may be closed manually. The door 6 and drawer 4302 isolate the cutting chamber 8 from the external environment and user (Block 703). Sensor 16 transmits a signal to the CPU indicating that the door 6 is in the closed position (Block 704).

The window covering 200 may be cut in the package or it may be removed from the package before being inserted into the machine. One example of a suitable package is disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/908,728 filed May 24, 2005 and is incorporated in its entirety herein. The operating system can be programmed to cut only window coverings in the package or only window coverings out of the package. Alternatively, the machine can be programmed to cut the product in either form, provided that the form of the product is input to the CPU prior to the cutting operation. “Window covering” as used herein for explaining the operation of the SIS machine includes both the window covering in the package and the window covering without the package and is represented by element 200 in the Figures.

The package or the window covering may be provided with a mark 101 at its longitudinal center where mark 101 can be sensed by sensor 92. The mark 101 may include reflective tape, reflective ink or other optically identifiable surface if sensor 92 is an optical sensor, a physical characteristic such as an indentation if the sensor is a mechanical sensor, a magnetic stripe if the sensor is a magnetic sensor or other combination of mark and sensor provided that sensor 92 can determine the center of the blind by reference to the mark.

Where the physical pin 285 of the embodiment of FIG. 18 or the retractable pin 4402 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 43 are used, mark 101 may be eliminated and the physical engagement of the window covering/package with pin 285 is used to locate the center of the window covering. Referring to FIGS. 23A and 23B, window covering/package 200 is placed on platform 20 and the pin 285 is manually inserted into the centering hole 201 formed in the center of the window covering 200 when the user loads the window blind into the SIS machine, FIG. 25. Referring to FIGS. 44 and 45 the window covering/package 200 is placed on platform 20 in drawer 4302 and the pin 4402 is manually inserted into the centering hole 201 formed in the center of the window covering 200 when the user loads the window blind into the SIS machine, FIG. 49. The engagement of the pin 285, 4402 with the centering hole 201 on the window covering locates the center of the window covering relative to the SIS machine. In such embodiments the use of sensors to determine the center of the window covering can be eliminated. Further, if the retractable pin on the lateral surface is used, the pin is retracted after the clamping jaw 82 clamps the window covering against lateral support surface 4328. If the window covering is cut while in the package, the package is formed with a hole that is coextensive with the centering hole on the window covering such that the pin can pass through the hole in the package and engage the window covering. Alternatively, a hole on the package can be used if the window covering is aligned within the package. The centering hole on the window covering may be made directly in the window covering, such as in the head rail, or a centering bracket with a hole formed therein may be attached to the window covering. For example the centering bracket with the centering hole may be fixed to the center of the head rail. Further, while a cylindrical pin engaging a mating round centering hole is shown, the physical engaging members may include any physical structures capable of engaging one another to locate the window covering relative to the clamp. For example, the male member may extend from the window covering or package and engage a female receptacle on the clamping jaw. These members may have any shape and a plurality of mating pairs of engaging members may be used.

A transaction record 230 is created by CPU 102 and stored in memory 104 (Block 705). The transaction record 230 may be populated with applicable information related to the transaction such as time, date and location of the SIS machine, customer information such as name, address, payment information, bar code number, product cut width, time spent during cutting, number of times the user navigates to each screen page and any errors reported by the PLC or the like (Block 706). Other information may also be stored in the transaction record.

User input data is also transmitted to and received by CPU 102 identifying, at least, the finished or cut size of the window covering (Block 707). The process for entering this information will be discussed in detail hereinafter. The user may be required to input other information regarding the window covering such as the type of blind, color, style, stock size or the like. The user may also be requested to input other information such as name, address, payment information or the like. Any or all of this information may be stored in transaction record 230.

To cut the window covering, if the physical engagement members of FIG. 18 or 43 are not used, the clamp assembly 80 is moved along the platform 20 by drive 89 from the known center position CP until the sensor 92 locates the center mark 101 of the window covering/package 200 (block 708). The clamp assembly is stopped in a position where the center of the clamp assembly 80 is aligned with the center CW of the window covering/package (Block 709), FIG. 21B. The position of clamp assembly 80 when positioned at the center CW of the window covering/package 200 is known. The CPU determines the distance D between the center CW of the window covering/package 200 and the center position CP to establish the location of the window covering/package 200 relative to the machine. These steps may be eliminated where the pin 285 and hole 201 of FIG. 18, or the retractable pin 4402 and hole 201 of FIG. 44, or other physical engaging members, are used. In such an arrangement the window covering is centered when it is manually inserted into the SIS machine by the physical engagement of the pin with the centering hole formed on the window covering.

Once the clamp assembly 80 is aligned with the center CW of the window covering/package 200 the drive 87 extends jaw 82 to force the window covering/package 200 against the lateral support surface 28 (Block 710, Block 4402, 4905), FIGS. 21C, 45B. In this position the clamp assembly 80 is centered on the window covering/package 200; the position CW of the clamp assembly 80 relative to the center position CP is known; and the window covering/package 200 is trapped between the jaw 82 and the lateral support surface 28. In the embodiments of FIGS. 21C and 45B the clamp assembly 80 is also positioned at the center of platform 20.

Referring to FIG. 24C, the CPU then determines how far to move the window covering/package to properly position it in front of the saws 30 and 32 (Block 711). The user enters into the processor 202 and the processor receives whether the window covering is intended to be mounted as an inside mount or an outside mount (Block 4404) and the desired size of the window covering (Block 4403). If an inside mount is selected, the processor 202 automatically deducts a predetermined length from the desired size entered by the user to obtain the final dimension of the window covering (Block 4405). If an outside mount is selected, the final dimension of the window covering is the desired size input by the user. The user may also enter the window height. The information entered by the user is stored in the record for that transaction. The CPU 102 accesses the desired cut size of the window covering as entered by the user. From this dimension the CPU calculates how far the center of the window covering must be positioned from the saws 30 and 32 to achieve the desired cut size of blind (Block 4406). The CPU divides the desired finished size by two to obtain a resulting distance from the center of the window covering to each end hereof. The center of the window covering must be positioned this resulting distance from the saw. The user also enters whether the window covering is for an inside mount or an outside mount. For an inside mount a small distance is subtracted from the desired size to accommodate for the space needed to mount inside of a window frame. For example, if a window covering is to be cut to a width of 35 inches, the CPU determines that the distance from the center of the window covering to each of the saws must be 17½ inches. For an inside mount ½ of an inch may be deducted from the desired size before dividing the desired size by 2. The CPU can make this determination without any information regarding the stock size of the blind or the amount of material to be cut from the end of the blind. For some applications material may be cut from only one end such as vanes for vertical blinds.

In the embodiment of FIG. 20, the PLC 203 determines how far to move the window covering/package to properly position it in front of the saws. The processor 202 transmits to the PLC 203 the final dimension of the window covering as entered by the user and as corrected to account for an inside mount, if necessary (Block 4407). Using this dimension, the PLC 203 determines how far the center of the package must be positioned from each saw to obtain the desired size of the window covering as previously described (Block 4408). Specifically, the PLC 203 divides the final dimension provided by the processor 202 by two to obtain a half length. The half length is equal to the distance from the center of the package/window covering to the end of the window covering and corresponds to the distance the center of the blind must be positioned from each saw. The PLC 203 makes this determination without any information regarding the stock or starting size of the window covering, the amount of material that will eventually be cut from the end of the window covering or whether the window covering is intended for an inside mount or an outside mount. The window covering is then cut as described below.

The clamp assembly 80 is then moved toward one end of the machine based on this determination such that the center of the blind is positioned the resulting distance from the saw (Block 712, FIG. 24C) and FIG. 21D. Clamp assembly 80 moves the window covering/package such that the position of the clamp assembly relative to the window covering/package 200 remains fixed. The clamp assembly 80 is moved such that the window covering/package is positioned in front of one of saws 30 or 32 with the center of the window covering spaced from the saw the predetermined distance. FIG. 17 also shows the clamp assembly 80 moved to an end of platform 20. Secondary clamps 99 may also be used adjacent each of the saws to hold the window covering in position during the cutting operation (FIG. 5, 15). The secondary clamps 99 are extended to trap the window covering against the lateral surface 28. The saw blade is rotated at high speed and the saw is moved toward the window covering/package by drive 43 such that the saw engages and cuts the window covering at the desired location (Block 713, FIG. 24C) and FIG. 21E.

The clamp assembly 80 is then moved toward the opposite end of the machine moving the window covering/package 200 with the clamp assembly (Block 714). The position of the clamp assembly 80 relative to the window covering/package 200 remains fixed. The clamp assembly 80 is moved such that the window covering/package is positioned in front of the other of saws 30 and 32, FIG. 21F with the center of the window covering spaced from the saw the predetermined distance. Secondary clamps 99 may also be used adjacent each of the saws to hold the window covering in position during the cutting operation (FIG. 5, 15). The secondary clamps 99 are extended to trap the window covering against the lateral surface 28. The saw blade is rotated at high speed and the saw is moved toward the window covering/package by drive 43 such that the saw engages and cuts the window covering at the desired location (Block 715, FIG. 24C) and FIG. 21F. The jaw 82 holds the window covering/package 200 tight against the lateral support surface 28 to support the window covering/package while it is cut. Both ends of the blind may be cut simultaneously by moving one or both of the saws relative to the window covering rather than moving the window covering.

Because the SIS machine uses controllable motors for the saws and may cut window coverings either in or out of the packaging, the SIS machine may cut a wide variety of window coverings including wood, plastic, fabric, vinyl and aluminum and a variety of styles including horizontal blinds, vertical blinds, woven shades, pleated shades, Roman shades and cellular blinds. The saws can also cut the shade panel and the head rail and bottom rail in one cut. The rotational speed of the saws and the feed rate of the saws can be controlled on a per cut basis based on the type of blind loaded in the SIS machine such that the saws may cut a wide variety of materials.

The process for cutting a vertical blind will now be described. Referring to FIGS. 46, 47 and 50 an engagement element projects from the lateral support surface 4328. The engagement element comprises a retractable pin 4520 that is offset from the center of the platform (FIGS. 55-57). The pin 4520 engages an engagement element comprising an alignment hole 4522 formed on the package 200 for a vertical window covering. Alignment hole is offset from the center of the package 200 and the center of the window covering and locates the vertical window covering in a known position on the platform 20. The pin 4520 is movable between an extended position where it extends beyond the lateral support surface and can engage a window covering and a retracted position where it is positioned behind the lateral support surface. The pin 4520 may be moved by a solenoid or other similar drive 4521. The drive 4521 is controlled by the PC to selectively and automatically extend and retract the pin. The drawer 4302 is opened and the user places the package containing the vanes or head rail 200 on the platform such that the pin 4520 extends into the alignment hole 4522 on the package/window covering package. The drawer 4302 is then closed. Because vertical window coverings may be longer than the SIS machine, opening 4322 (FIGS. 43 and 56) is provided at one end of the SIS machine that allows the package containing the vanes or head rail 200 to extend out of that end of the cutting machine, if necessary, as shown in FIGS. 46 and 47. The clamp assembly 80 is positioned on the platform 20 centered on the location of the alignment hole 4522 and the pin 4520. The clamping jaw is extended to press the package 200 against the lateral support surface 4328 (FIG. 47) and the pin 4520 is withdrawn from the package.

For a vertical window covering material is cut from only one end of the vanes and from one end of the head rail. The head rail and vanes are stored in separate packages and are cut separately. The user selects an icon on the touch screen to initiate the cutting process (Block 5001). In the typical use a sales associate enters a security code and enters that a vertical blind is to be cut. The user also enters whether the head rail or vanes are to be cut (Block 5002). For a head rail the clamp assembly is shuttled back and forth along the length of the platform such that the optical scanner 92 scans the package to read the bar code 220 on the package (Block 5003). For the vanes a separate flip card 221 having a bar code is held in front of scanner 92 such that it is scanned by the optical scanner 92 (Block 5004). The user selects the flip card that corresponds to the selected vanes and holds the flip card where it can be read by the optical scanner. While the flip card is described as being used with the vanes and the head rail is described as having a bar code on the package, the bar code on the package and the flip card may be used with any type of window covering. The code from the bar code is used by the PC to obtain from the look-up table the detailed information for the window covering. After reading the bar code the clamp assembly 80 is moved to the position on the platform centered on the location where the offset pin engages the alignment hole in the package. As previously explained, while this position does not correspond to the center of the platform or the center of the package, this position is known. A transaction record is created for the window covering and stored in memory as previously described with respect to horizontal window coverings.

For a head rail the monitor displays a prompt for whether the window covering is an inside mount or an outside mount. The user then enters into the user interface and the PC receives a signal indicating whether the window covering is intended to be mounted as an inside mount or an outside mount (Block 5006). For vanes the monitor displays a prompt for whether the window covering is an inside mount, an outside mount or exact. For vanes the user is also provided with an additional option of “Exact” where the final dimension of the vanes is the same as the desired size entered by the user. The user then enters into the user interface and the PC receives a signal indicating whether the window covering is intended to be mounted as an inside mount, an outside mount or exact (Block 5009). The monitor displays a prompt asking for the desired length of the head rail or vanes, as appropriate. The user then enters into the user interface and the PC receives the desired length of the head rail or vanes (Block 5005). For a head rail, if an inside mount is selected, the PC automatically deducts a predetermined length from the desired size of the head rail entered by the user to obtain the final dimension of the head rail (Block 5007). If an outside mount is selected, the final dimension of the head rail is the desired size input by the user (Block 5008). For vanes, for both inside and outside mounts the PC deducts a predetermined length from the desired size of the vanes to account for the height of the head rail. If an outside mount is selected, the final dimension of the head rail is the desired size input by the user minus the head rail dimension (Block 5010). If an inside mount is selected, the PC automatically deducts the predetermined head rail dimension and a second predetermined length from the desired size of the vanes entered by the user to obtain the final dimension of the vanes (Block 5011). If “Exact” is selected the final dimension of the vanes equals the desired size entered by the user” (Block 5012).

The PLC determines how far to move the package to properly position the head rail or vanes in front of the saw. As previously explained, the head rail or vanes are retained in the package such that the package and head rail or vanes are cut simultaneously. Referring to FIG. 47, the packages retain the head rail and vanes such that a first end of the head rail or vanes is located a known distance C from a first end of the package. The cut is made at the opposite end of the package. The alignment hole in the package is spaced a known distance Z from the first end of the package. For a particular window covering the values for C and Z are obtained from the look-up table that was accessed using the bar code (Block 5013). The distance Y the clamp assembly must be positioned from the saw to obtain the desired final dimension is calculated according to the following equation:

Y=Final Dimension−Z+C,

where Y is the distance between the alignment hole and the saw (Block 5014). The final dimension of the vertical window covering is Y+Z−C.

The PC transmits to the PLC the final dimension of the window covering as entered by the user and including the deductions calculated by the PC, if any. Using this dimension, the PLC determines how far the alignment hole must be positioned from the saw to obtain the final dimension of the window covering as calculated in accordance with the equation set forth above (Block 5014). This location is converted to an encoder count that corresponds to the calculated value Y. The PLC makes this determination without using any information regarding the stock or starting size of the blind or the amount of material that will eventually be cut from the end of the blind.

The PLC controls the drive for the clamp assembly to move the clamp assembly toward one saw to position the alignment hole the calculated distance Y from that saw (Block 5015). Because a limited amount of space is provided between the saw 32 and the end of the cabinet of the SIS machine the window covering cannot be advanced more than distance S beyond the saw. Because it may be necessary for the clamp assembly to move the window covering more than distance S to reach the calculated Y position, the SIS machine uses an iterative process to cut vertical window coverings.

In this iterative process, the window covering is indexed toward the saw by the clamp assembly. An optical sensor 105 is positioned in front of the saw blade 32 that senses the first end of the package as it is indexed toward the saw. The first end of the package is then moved past the saw. If the clamp assembly reaches the calculated Y value (encoder count) before moving distance S, the clamp assembly is stopped at the encoder count and the stationary clamp 99 associated with this saw is extended to hold the package (Block 5016). The saw is moved toward the package containing the head rail or vanes such that the saw engages and cuts the first end of the package and the head rail or vanes to the final dimension (Block 5017). If the clamp assembly does not reach the calculated Y value (encoder count) before moving distance S, the stationary clamp 99 associated with this saw is extended to hold the package and window covering (Block 5018). The saw is moved toward the package containing the window covering such that the saw engages and cuts a length equal to S from the first end of the package (Block 5019). This process is repeated until the clamp assembly reaches the calculated Y value and the package and vanes or head rail are cut to the final dimension (Block 5016).

After the window covering is cut to the final dimension, the stationary clamp 99 is retracted and the clamp assembly 80 moves the window covering and package to the start position. The clamping jaw 82 is retracted to release the window covering and package. The drawer 4302 is opened to allow the user to remove the window covering 200 from the platform.

Referring to FIGS. 48A through 481, 51 and 58, the process for squaring a window covering and for cutting a window covering with a valance will now be described. Prior to cutting a window covering it is necessary to ensure that all of the components (head rail, bottom rail, slats, shade panel, woven element, cells, etc.) are squared so that the cut elements all have the same cut width. Further, a valance is dimensioned such that it is longer than the window covering with which it is associated in order to completely cover the head rail when the window covering is installed. For the automatic squaring of the window covering components and for window coverings with valances a specially configured package and cutting process is used. The process provides automatic squaring of the window covering components and allows the window covering and valance to be automatically cut using the SIS machine while maintaining the length differential between the valance and the window covering.

Referring to FIG. 48A a window covering and package 200 is shown where the package comprises a box that is configured such that the valance extends from the box and is movable along its longitudinal axis relative thereto. One embodiment of a suitable package 200 is shown in FIG. 58. Package 200 is provided consisting of an open-ended box or sleeve 5822 that is a rectangular container that is open at both ends. The window covering is oriented in box 5822 such that it is centered in the box with the head rail, slats, bottom rail and valance 201 extending along the long axis of the box 5822. The window covering 203 is supported in box 5822 such that it extends beyond the ends of box 5822 with the ends of valance 205 extending beyond the ends of window covering 203.

For transport, storage and display purposes end caps 5840 cover the open ends of the box 5822. The end caps 5840 may be secured to the box 5822 by any releasable connection including a shrink wrap, adhesive, tear-away tabs or the like. The end caps 5840 are removed from box 5822 prior to cutting and may be replaced on the box 5822 after the cutting operation to retain the cut window covering in box 5822. While the box 5822 is useful for a package for window coverings with valances, the box may be used with any window covering to provide the automatic squaring of the components of the window covering as will be described.

Referring again to FIGS. 48A through 481 and 51, the window covering is packaged such that the window covering components and valance 205 extend beyond the end of the package 200 and can be moved along the longitudinal axis relative to the package and one another as represented by arrow A in FIG. 48A (Block 5101). The valance 205 extends beyond the ends of the window covering 203 a distance equal to the final desired length differential between the valance and the window covering. Thus, if the valance 205 in the final cut product is to be ¼ inch longer than the window covering, the length of valance extending beyond the end of the window covering 203 is ¼ inch. In the drawings the length of valance extending beyond the end of the window covering is exaggerated for illustrative purposes. One end of the valance may extend beyond the end of the package the entire length differential or both ends of the valance may each extend beyond the end of the package a portion of the total length differential as shown in FIG. 48A.

To cut a window covering with a valance (or to automatically square and cut a window covering without a valance) additional squaring steps are added to the cut process. As previously explained, the position of the clamp assembly relative to the saws is calculated based on a distance from a known location (e.g. center of the window covering) and the clamp assembly is positioned based on the calculated distance from the known location to the saw. To square the first end of the window covering, the window covering and package 200 are moved in a first direction, as represented by arrow B in FIG. 48B, until the end of the window covering strikes a squaring surface that is selectively moved into the path of travel of the window covering (Block 5102). The squaring surface is arranged such that it is perpendicular to the direction of travel of the window covering. The window covering 203 is moved against the squaring surface until the end of all of the window covering components abut the squaring surface and are in a common plane or “square”. In the illustrated embodiment the squaring surface is the face of the saw blade 36R. The saw blade 36R is moved to the extended position where it intersects the path of travel of the window covering; however, the saw blade 36R is not rotated. While the saw blades 36L and 36R are used as the squaring surfaces in the illustrated embodiment, the squaring surface may be a separate component that is moved into in the path of travel of the blade. The window covering is moved one half the stock length of the window covering from the saw blade.

Referring to FIG. 48C, the opposite saw 36L is extended and the package 200, window covering 203 and valance 205 are moved toward the opposite saw, arrow C, until the valance 205 and the end of the window covering 203 strike the opposite saw blade 36L (Block 5103). The window covering 200 and valance 201 are moved against the saw blade 36L until the window covering and valance abut the saw blade and the second ends of the valance and the components of the window covering are coplanar and square.

Referring to FIG. 48D, the saw blade is retracted (Block 5104) and the clamp assembly 80 is moved to the calculated position, arrow D, to position the window covering in front of the saw 35L (Block 5105). Referring to FIG. 48E, the stationary clamp 199 is extended to hold the window covering 203 in position and the saw 36L is rotated at high speed and moved into engagement with the window covering 203 and valance 205 to cut both the valance and the window covering at the same time (Block 5106).

Referring to FIG. 48F, the clamp assembly and window covering are then moved toward the opposite saw 36R and the opposite saw blade 36R is moved to an extended position where it intersects the path of travel of the window covering. The window covering 203 and valance 205 are moved, arrow E, until they abut the saw blade 36R. The valance 205 is moved relative to the window covering 203 by the saw blade 36R until the first ends of the valance 205 and window covering components are coplanar (Block 5107). In this position the valance extends beyond the previously cut end of the window covering 203 a distance equal to the length differential.

Referring to FIG. 48G, the saw blade 36R is retracted (Block 5108) and the clamp assembly 80 is moved to the calculated position, arrow F, to position the window covering in front of the saw 36R (Block 5109). Referring to FIG. 48H, the stationary clamp 199 is extended to hold the window covering 203 and the saw 36R is rotated at high speed and moved into engagement with the window covering 203 and valance 205 to cut the first ends of at the same time (Block 5110).

Because the valance was moved relative to the window covering prior to making each cut, the finished size of the valance 205 maintains the same length differential relative to the window covering 203 as prior to the cuts, FIG. 48I. Thus, if the uncut valance was ¼ inch longer than the uncut window covering, the cut valance will be ¼ inch longer than the cut window covering.

The process described above may also be used to square the ends of the window covering even where a valance is not used. Using a package having open ends, such as described in FIG. 58, the package may be moved against the obstruction in the same manner and following the same steps as described with respect to FIGS. 48A to 48I. When the ends of the window covering are pushed against the obstructions all of the window covering components (head rail, bottom rail, slats, shade panel and the like) are aligned in the same vertical plane or “squared”. The squared window covering is then clamped and cut as previously described.

It is to be understood that for any given stock size of window covering there is a range of cut sizes that are valid for that size window covering based on the geometry of the blind including the location of the lift cords, pulley systems, cord locks and the like. In one embodiment, to ensure that a window covering is not cut such that the cut interferes with the operation of the window covering, a mark 103 may be provided at each end of the window covering/package 200, FIGS. 21E and 21F. A sensor 105 is located near the entrance to each cutting device 30, 32 such that if the sensor 105 detects a mark 103 the cutting operation is terminated before a cut is made. The mark 103 may include reflective tape, reflective ink or other optically identifiable surface if sensors 105 are optical sensors, a physical characteristic such as an indentation if the sensors are mechanical sensors, a magnetic stripe if the sensors are magnetic sensors or other combination of mark and sensor provided that sensor 105 can detect the mark 103. In one embodiment the mark 103 is located between the end of the window covering and the lift cords, cord locks, pulley systems and other blind componentry such that a cut is prevented too close to (or inside of) these components. The mark can be located on the window covering/package such that blinds of different sizes, shapes, configurations and componentry can be accommodated.

A vacuum system 90 may be used in the cutting chamber 8 to capture the debris and dust created during the cutting operation. The vacuum system 90 may comprise a vacuum motor that communicates with the cutting chamber 8 by conduits such as flexible hoses. The vacuum system may include a grate in the cutting chamber that allows the cut material to flow from the cutting chamber to the vacuum. Because the SIS machine may be used on a wide variety of window coverings manufactured from a wide variety of materials, it is important that the system be able to remove dust and debris from the cutting chamber. For example, when a real wood window covering is cut, the saw cuts through the wood slats creating dust and debris and cuts through the metal head rail and bottom rail that may generate sparks. While unlikely, the sparks created by the saw blade striking the metal rails could ignite the wood dust and debris. Accordingly, the system uses a dust management system to minimize the dust debris in the cutting chamber.

Referring to FIG. 54 the system uses saw blade shrouds 5402 that substantially surround the bottom of saw blades 36 as the saws reciprocate between the cutting and non-cutting positions to trap dust and debris generated when cutting a window blind. A dust collection plenum 5404 is provided in each saw chamber for drawing the dust and debris from the saw chambers. Ducts 5406 and 5408 connect the dust collection plenums 5404 and saw blade shrouds 5402 to vortex dust collectors 5410. The vortex dust collectors 5410 separate the heavy debris from the fine dust. The vortex pulls the heavy debris from the vacuum stream where it falls into a large debris collection bucket 5412. The fines are drawn through ducts 5414 by dust collector 5418 and captured in a dust collection bag 5416 where they are collected. Dust collection bag 5416 should be separated from electrical equipment to reduce chances of igniting dust in bag. The dust collection bag may be housed in a metal housing. The buckets 5412 and bag 5416 may be removed via doors 5415 in machine housing 4 (FIG. 52) for debris disposal. Typically, the buckets are emptied and reused and the dust collector bag is disposed of and replaced. Blast gates 5420 may be provided to control the flow of air through the system and to control dust collection from the active saw.

Large debris such as the metal head rail, chip board, cellular fabric, and the like should be prevented from entering the dust collection system to minimize or eliminate the chances of system clogging. Smooth bore flexible duct or smooth fixed duct work should be used to reduce the chances of dust accumulation or debris lodging within the system. Flow rates in the dust collection system should be at minimum of 2500 f.p.m. Conductive non-combustible duct work should be used where possible with proper grounding. In one example, metal hard plumbed duct work is used and plastic components are minimized. All components handling dust should be grounded and bonded to prevent static build up. The SIS machine should be vented to allow for air flow in the dust collection system. A sensor may also be included that would prevent the SIS machine from operating if vacuum system goes down or the system clogs. Further, fire resistant surfaces may be used inside the cut area and blowers with an aluminum blade or housing may be used to prevent sparks if, for example, the blower bearings go bad.

An air hose 5424 may also be provided for delivering a high pressure flow of air from air source 5426 into the window covering/package to blow the fines and debris from the head rail, bottom rail and slats such that the fines and debris can be pulled into the vacuum stream. This also provides a cleaner product for the user when transporting and installing the window covering. The removal of the fines and debris from the cutting chamber minimizes the chance that the debris will be ignited.

The system may also use a smoke or fire detector system to provide an alarm if a fire is detected. Any suitable smoke or fire alarm 5422 may be used. The alarm may provide a signal to the CPU 102 such that the CPU may provide a suitable alarm. The alarm may be an audible and/or visual signal provided at the SIS machine and/or the CPU may transmit a data message to a maintenance provider, a premise's fire system, a security system, a fire department or the like over network 108.

Further, weather stripping is provided to seal the saw chambers and prevent dust and fine particles from exiting the saw chambers. The computer and PLC are also stored in separate compartments 4325 and 4327 (FIG. 43) where the compartments are also sealed to prevent dust and fines from fouling the electronics equipment.

In an alternate embodiment the clamp assembly 80 may include two sensors 92 and 94, FIGS. 22A-22D used to locate the center of the window covering. The clamp assembly is moved along the platform 20 by drive 89 from the known center position CP (FIG. 22A) in one direction until the sensor located at the leading edge of the clamp (sensor 92) locates the first end 200 a of the window covering/package 200 relative to the known center position CP, FIG. 22B. The position of the clamp assembly 80 marking the first end of the window covering/package 200 is saved in memory. The direction of movement of the clamp assembly 80 is then reversed and the clamp assembly 80 is moved along the platform 20 by drive 89 from the known center position CP in the opposite direction until the other sensor (sensor 94), located at the leading edge of the clamp, locates the opposite end 200 b of the window covering/package relative to the known center position CP FIG. 22C. The position of the clamp assembly 80 marking the second edge of the window covering/package 200 is stored in memory. Based on the detected end positions, the CPU then determines the center CW of the window covering/package 200. The CPU uses the stored the positions of the first edge 200 a and second edge 200 b to determine the center of window covering 200. These positions may be determined by, for example, counting the rotations of stepper motor or servomotor 91 as the clamp assembly 80 moves from the center position CP to the first edge 200 a and the second edge 200 b. The CPU then determines the position midway between the first and second edge positions by, for example, dividing the number of rotations between the two positions by two and adding the result to or subtracting it from the first or second position, respectively, to arrive at the center of the window covering. The center of the window covering may also be determined by calculating the distances of the first edge 200 a and the second edge 200 b relative to the center position CP. The CPU also determines the distance D between the center of the window covering and the center position CP. The CPU positions the clamp assembly 80 such that it is aligned with the center of the window covering/package FIG. 22D. A single sensor may also be used to detect both edges of the window covering/package. Once the clamp assembly 80 is aligned with the center CW of the window covering/package the window covering may be cut as previously described.

A validation process may also be used to ensure that the cutting operation described above is valid for the selected window covering. Either the package with the window covering or the window covering (if removed from the package) is provided with product identification information in a machine readable form such as data encoded in bar code 220 that is readable by a sensor 122 such as optical scanner. While the window covering may be cut either with the packaging or removed from the packaging, cutting the window covering in the package may be simpler and allows the package to hold the product in place during and after it is cut. The bar code 220 is unique to the window covering with which it is associated and identifies the specific window covering by using a unique code such as a serial number. The bar code 220 may also contain information such as the size, style, color or the like of the window covering. The bar code 220 may also contain manufacturer's information such as lot number or retailer's information such as purchase order number.

The bar code 220 is read using a sensor 122 such as an optical scanner to obtain the identification information (Block 900). The bar code 220 may be replaced by radio frequency identification (RFID) tags or other suitable identification technology. The sensor 122 transmits a signal to CPU 102 or processor 202 encoded with the data specific to the window covering 200. The identification information may be stored in data base 104 as part of the transaction record 230 for the window covering.

The CPU 102 or processor 202 may use the user input data and the identification information (e.g. the information encoded in or obtained from the look-up table using bar code 220) to determine if the customer request is valid FIG. 27. The CPU 102 or processor 202 compares the user input desired size to the allowable product size range as obtained from the bar code 220 (Block 901) and determines if the user input cut size is a valid cut size for the selected window covering (Block 902). For example, has the user inadvertantly selected a window covering that is smaller than the desired cut size or has the user selected a cut size that is too small for the selected stock window covering. Specifically, the PC has a look up table that lists a range of blind sizes that are valid for any given stock size blind. A comparison is made between the entered desired size and the range of valid sizes. If the desired size falls within this range, the cut is validated and the user is asked to confirm the request. In the embodiment of FIG. 20 the PC then sends a signal to the PLC to initiate the cutting operation. In the embodiment of FIG. 19 the CPU initiates the cutting operation. If the desired size is outside of this range, an error message is displayed on the touch screen. If the user input data is not valid, an error message will be displayed to the user by the user interface identifying the error and requesting that the user correct the user input data or the selected window covering (Block 903). If the window covering/package 200 is provided with marks 103 that are readable by sensors 105 that prevent a cut if the cut would interfere with the components or functionality of the window covering as previously described, this separate verification step may be omitted.

The CPU may also compare the user input data to the product identification information from the bar code 220 and determine if the user has actually selected the window covering that the user believes that he or she selected (e.g. does the user input style and color match the actual style and color of the window covering) (Block 904). The display may display the information obtained from the look-up table for user review. If the user input data is valid for the selected blind, the SIS machine will initiate the cutting process to automatically cut the blind to the user's desired size as has been described (Block 905). If the user input data is not valid, an error message will be displayed to the user by the user interface identifying the error and requesting that the user correct the user input data or the selected window covering (Block 903). The validation process may be repeated until the user data is validated for the selected window covering. Note, one or both of verification steps 902 and 904 may be omitted.

Another method for determining the validity of the window covering size determination is to rely on the weight of the window covering rather than using a machine readable data structure such as bar code 220. A scale could be incorporated into the platform 20 to detect the weight of the window covering/package 200. A look up in a look up table stored in memory 104 can then be performed by the CPU 102 or processor 202 comparing the measured weight to the known weights of the stock window coverings. The weight could be used to identify window covering characteristics such as permissable of cut ranges, window covering material or the like where the characteristics are used to validate or implement the cutting operation. For example a particular saw blade type or saw speed may be used for different blind materials. Further, valid cut ranges may be determined for a window covering.

After the window covering is cut to the desired size, drive 89 moves the clamp assembly 80 and the window covering/package 200 to the center position CP (Block 724, FIG. 24D). Drive 43 retracts the clamping jaw 82 to releases the window covering/package 200 (Block 725).

The system may then verify that the actual cut length matches the user input cut size (Block 726). The clamp assembly 80 is moved along the platform 20 by drive 89 from the known center position in one direction until the sensor locates the first end 200 a of the window covering/package 200. The direction of movement of the clamp assembly 80 is then reversed and the clamp assembly 80 is moved along the platform 20 by drive 89 in the opposite direction until the sensor locates the opposite edge 200 b of the window covering/package. The distance the clamp assembly 80 travels between the two edges 200 a and 200 b of the package is detected. The distance traveled is equal to the actual cut size of the window covering. The actual cut size is compared to the desired cut size input by the user. If the two sizes match the cut is verified. The two sizes may be determined to match if the distance between the input cut size and the actual cut size fall within a predetermined minimum acceptable error margin.

The vacuum, saws and other moving components are stopped and the door 6 or drawer 4302 are opened automatically or manually (Block 727). The cut window covering can then be removed by the user. The cutting operation is completely automated. The cutting process is also isolated from the user during the process to maximize the safety of the process.

The data related to the transaction is stored in a transaction record 230 and may include, but not be limited to, original size of product, cut to size of product, date, time, store identifier/location, and blind drop (length), bar code number, product cut width, time spent during cutting, number of times the user navigates to each screen page and any errors reported by the PLC (Block 728). The data captured by the SIS machine could be transferred to the blind manufacturer 111 or retailer outlet system 113 over a network 108 at any time and be associated with the customer's original order such that a complete record of the order and cutting operation is maintained (Block 729).

Numerous processes may be used to enable the user to transmit the user input data to the SIS machine 1. In one operation, FIGS. 28A and 28B, the user measures the window or other architectural feature using traditional measuring tools such as a tape measure, ruler, electronic tape measure or the like and notes the measurements (Block 801). The customer logs onto a website of a window covering provider and selects a window covering product for each measured architectural feature and the selection is transmitted to and received by CPU 102 or processor 202 (Block 802). The user may log onto the web site from a user terminal 109 or from user interface 112 or from any device that allows access to the website. A transaction record is created for that customer and transaction by CPU 102 or processor 202 and the transaction record is stored in memory (Block 803). Based on the noted measurements, the customer enters a cut size for each of the selected window coverings and the CPU 102 or processor 202 receives the cut sizes (Block 804). The customer is prompted for and transmits whether the mount is an inside mount or an outside mount. The type of mount is received by the CPU 102 or processor 202 (Block 805). If outside mount is selected the window covering is cut to the size input by the customer. If inside mount is selected a length deduction, for example ½ inch, is subtracted from the size input by the customer (Block 806). The customer is prompted for zip code, address or other geographical information and the geographical information is received by the CPU 102 or processor 202 (Block 807). The CPU 102 or processor 202 determines the nearest retail outlet location having a SIS machine such as by using a look up table stored in memory 104 (Block 808). The identified retail outlet is displayed on the user interface 112 or terminal 109 (Block 808). The customer may select the identified outlet or the customer may manually select another outlet. The selected outlet is recorded in the transaction record (Block 809). The customer is prompted for and confirms the order and the confirmation is received by the CPU or processor (Block 810). Payment may be made on-line or payment may be deferred until the customer picks up the order at the retail outlet. The ordering process may include verification of the customer payment information (Block 811).

The customer's order and/or complete transaction record is sent to the selected retail outlet 113 over network 108 (Block 812). Based on the order, the retail outlet personnel use the SIS machine to cut the ordered window coverings to the customer's specified dimensions (Block 813) as previously described. The cutting operation may be performed during off hours or non-peak hours to more efficiently use personnel time.

The customer is contacted by retail outlet 113 with a scheduled pick-up time for retrieving the cut window covering (Block 814). The customer travels to the retail outlet to pick up the cut window coverings (Block 815).

Another ordering methodology uses a photo-measuring kit to provide the measurements for the architectural feature rather than using a traditional measuring tool. The customer obtains a photo-measuring kit such as by ordering a kit from a window covering manufacturer's website or picking up a measuring kit at a retail outlet.

Referring to FIGS. 29A, 29B and 30 the measuring kit includes at least one measuring block 120 that includes a unique design 121 printed on a front surface thereof (Block 601). The measuring block may comprise any rigid material that can be supported adjacent the architectural feature 123 being measured. The design 121 comprises a unique pattern or design that is of known dimensions and shape. The specific shape of the design is selected such that it is unlikely to be similar to any aspects of the architectural feature and thus will be recognizable when viewed adjacent to the architectural feature.

The customer places one or more measuring blocks 120 in the architectural feature being measured (Block 602) such that the measuring block 120 and entire architectural feature 123 are visible. The measuring block 120 should be mounted as close to the same plane as the architectural feature being measured. Thus, for example, to measure a window the measuring block is mounted within the frame of the window such as by taping it to the window glass. In one embodiment at least two measuring blocks are used where each measuring block is located with a designated edge 125 placed along the edge of the architectural feature being measured. For example, for a window covering that is intended to be mounted on a window, the edges 125 of the blocks 120 are placed along the inside frame of the window. A digital photograph of the architectural feature 123 with the measuring blocks 120 mounted adjacent thereto is taken (Block 604). The customer may also place a unique designator 127 on the architectural feature while photographing it to identify the building, room and/or architectural feature to which that measurement relates (Block 603).

The customer logs onto a window covering provider website from a user terminal 109 over network 108 and the CPU 102 or processor 202 creates a transaction record (Block 605). The system prompts the customer for, and the customer enters, information related to the customer such as name, address, payment information, internet address or the like and the CPU 102 or processor 202 receives this information and populates the transaction record unique to that customer and transaction (Block 606). The customer is then prompted to upload the photographs taken of the architectural feature with the measuring blocks (Block 607). The customer uploads the photographs and the photographs are received by the CPU 102 or processor 202 and stored in memory (Block 608). The photographs are displayed to the customer on the customer interface 112, 109 (Block 609). The customer is prompted to select the photograph of the first architectural feature for which a window covering is to be ordered (Block 610). The customer selection is entered into the transaction record for the first transaction (Block 611).

The system determines the dimensions of the architectural feature using the photograph provided and selected by the user (Block 612). Referring to FIG. 31, the system first determines the display resolution of the photograph (Block 1201). Once the display resolution is determined the system determines the scale of the photograph (Block 1202). This is accomplished by counting the number of pixels extending from one point on the unique design 121 on a measuring block to another point on that design (Block 1203). Because the dimensions of the design 121 are known, the system can determine the scale of the photograph by calculating how many pixels extend between the two points on the design. Because the distance between the two known points is known the system calculates how much linear distance (scaling factor) each pixel represents (Block 1204). The system can then determine the distance between the reference edges 125 of the measuring blocks 120 by counting the pixels between those reference edges (Block 1205) and multiplying the number of pixels by the scaling factor (Block 1206). Thus, the system can automatically determine the dimension of the architectural feature based on the photograph provided by the user.

Referring again to FIG. 29B, the customer is then prompted to select a cut-to-size window covering for the selected architectural feature and the selection is received and stored by the CPU 102 (Block 613). The system automatically overlays the selected window covering on the selected architectural feature and displays the composite image on the user terminal 109 (Block 614). The composite image provides the customer an opportunity to view how a specific window covering will look on their specific architectural feature before the customer purchases the window covering. The customer can change the style, color, mount of the window covering to display various design options before purchasing the window covering. The customer selects the desired window covering and the selection is received and recorded by CPU 102 (Block 615). The customer repeats these steps for all pictures (architectural features) that were uploaded into the system (Block 610).

Another ordering methodology will now be described where the user interacts directly with the SIS machine. Referring to FIG. 32, the customer visits a retail outlet having a SIS machine (Block 1001). The customer physically shops the retail outlet and selects the window covering they wish to purchase and cut (Block 1002). The customer or store personnel (hereinafter “user”) loads the selected window covering into the SIS machine and initiates the cutting process by pushing a start button on the user interface 112 (Block 1003). The user uses user interface 112 to input information about the SIS product to be sized and the customer. A sample screen shot is shown in FIG. 34 that illustrates an introductory screen that may be displayed on user interface 112 that provides the user with options to cut the window covering, instructions on how to use the system, or the like. If the user selects to cut a blind another screen shot such as that shown in FIG. 35 may be presented on user interface 112 that prompts the user for information relating to the window covering to be cut. In the illustrated screen shot the user is prompted to select a type of blind. The information is received by the CPU 102 or processor 202 and a transaction record is created (Block 1004). Verbal and/or visual feedback on the selection may be given to the user at user interface 112. The user enters the cut size of the finished product and the CPU 102 or processor 202 receives this information and stores it in the transaction record (Block 1005). A sample screen shot is shown in FIG. 36 for receiving the size information from the customer. Another screen shot is shown in FIG. 37 showing a pop up screen for receiving the user measurements of the architectural feature. The user is prompted for and enters into the system inside or outside mount and the CPU 102 or processor 202 receives and records this information in the transaction record (Block 1006). A sample screen shot is shown in FIG. 38 for receiving the inside/outside mount information. The system determines and displays on the user interface the size of the stock product required for the desired cut product (Block 1007). A sample screen shot is shown in FIG. 39 for displaying the stock product required for the desired cut size window covering. The user is directed to place the window covering into the machine in the proper location and orientation. A sample screen shot is shown in FIG. 40 prompting the user to load the machine and for displaying a signal that the window covering was properly inserted. The user interface 112 may display to the user a summary of the data related to the window covering including size, blind type, color or the like as shown in the screen shot of FIG. 41. The machine automatically cuts the blind to the desired size as previously explained. The process may be repeated for each blind to be cut. A screen shot prompting the user for another window covering or ending the cutting session is illustrated in FIG. 42. Once the user is finished, the SIS machine may print a receipt containing the original size of the product before cutting, and the size the product have cut too.

Data of the transaction would be stored in the internal database 104 where the stored data may include, but not be limited to, original size of product, cut to size of product, date, time, store location, and blind drop. The data captured by the SIS machine could be transferred to the blind manufacturer 111 or retailer outlet system 113 over network 108 at any time such that a complete record of the order and cutting operation is maintained as previously described. Because the PC is connected over network 108 to the blind manufacturer, retailer or maintenance service provider, the information may be remotely provided from any of these entities to and from the SIS machine. For example, the SIS machine may provide a maintenance alert if its onboard diagnostics determines that that a predetermined situation has occurred. The SIS machine may also provide diagnostic information to a maintenance service provider. The software running the SIS machine can also be remotely updated to change operating parameters of the machine such as the feed speed and rotational speed of the saws. The software running the SIS machine can also be remotely updated to change the information displayed on the screen to the user including sales and marketing information.

Another ordering methodology uses the photo-measuring kit as previously described. Referring to FIG. 33 the user photographs the architectural feature 123 and blocks 120 using a digital camera (Block 1101). The user brings the camera or memory stick or the like having the photographs stored in memory to a retail outlet and connects the camera to the CPU 102 or processor 202 via a USB port or places the memory stick in the appropriate memory card reader slot or otherwise connects the camera memory to the CPU 102 or processor 202 (Block 1102). The customer inputs information to the user interface and the CPU 102 or processor 202 creates a transaction record as previously described (Block 1103). Overlay images may be displayed at user interface 112 such that the customer can view the images of selected window coverings on their photographs and select a desired window covering style as previously described (Block 1104). The CPU 102 or processor 202 calculates the stock size of the window covering and displays to the user the size of stock window covering that is needed for the architectural feature shown in the user photograph (1105).

Another ordering methodology requires that the customer manually measure the dimensions of the architectural feature to be covered using existing measuring tools such as a tape measure or laser measure (Block 1106). The customer brings the measurements to a retail outlet and manually inputs the measurement information and other information at the user interface 112 and the CPU 102 or processor 202 and a transaction record is created as previously described (Block 1107). The CPU 102 or processor 202 calculates the required stock window covering size (Block 1105).

The user then physically selects the indicated window covering from the retail outlet inventory and places the window covering in the SIS machine as previously described (Block 1108). The SIS machine operates automatically to cut the window covering to the desired size as previously explained.

In one embodiment the SIS system could direct the customer to the appropriate size window coverings (Block 1109). For example, the user interface 112 displays an identification of the location within the retail outlet by alphanumeric characters, color code, map or the like (Block 1110). Alternatively, the system may be connected to lights or other audio/visual indicators 135 associated with the inventory of window coverings where the indicator is actuated to identify the appropriate window covering (Block 1111). For example, the bin in which the window coverings are stored is lighted to guide the customer to the appropriate window covering. Once the appropriate window covering is selected the customer loads the window covering into the SIS machine (Block 1112) and the SIS machine cuts the window covering as previously described.

Because a transaction record is created for each customer and each transaction the system operator has a complete record of each purchase. This information can be used to confirm and verify individual purchases by individual purchasers. This information can also be used in the aggregate to determine market trends, most common window sizes, most popular window treatments, buying habits and other market trends. This information may also be used for inventory control. For example, if the window covering provider has access to the data that manufacturer can obtain real time information on hand inventory for any of its customers and can restock depleted inventory and/or remove slow moving inventory in a timely manner to ensure that the manufacturer's supply of product matches the purchasing patterns of a specific retailer's customers. The retail outlet, if it has access to this information, can use the information for its own customers. All of this data may be sent to a remote location over network 108.

Because the user is a captive audience during the cutting operation the user interface 112 can be used to present advertising information, news, or other information to the customer. The information may be stored locally in the operating system of the SIS machine such that the information relates to other products sold by the retail outlet or window covering provider. Moreover, because the operating system of the SIS machine is connected to the Internet, any information may be provided on the user interface by the system administrator where the user interface 112 functions as the user terminal.

Specific embodiments of an invention are described herein. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the invention has other applications in other environments. In fact, many embodiments and implementations are possible. The following claims are in no way intended to limit the scope of the invention to the specific embodiments described above. 

1. A method of operating a window covering cutting machine comprising: retaining a window covering in a package such that a first end of the window covering is located at a known first position relative to the package; providing an engagement element on the package that is located at a known second position on the package; automatically moving the engagement element a distance from a saw to obtain a final dimension of the window covering where the distance is calculated using the first position and the second position.
 2. The method of claim 1 wherein the first position is a distance C from a first end of the package.
 3. The method of claim 2 wherein a second position is spaced a known distance Z from the first end of the package.
 4. The method of claim 3 wherein the distance C and the distance Z are obtained from a look-up table.
 5. The method of claim 4 wherein the look-up table is accessed using a bar code that identifies a type of window covering.
 6. The method of claim 3 wherein the distance is calculated according to the following equation: final dimension−Z+C.
 7. The method of claim 1 wherein the engagement element is a hole, further comprising engaging said hole with a pin.
 8. The method of claim 1 further comprising providing a drawer, said drawer having a surface and being movable between an open position and a closed position; moving the drawer to an open position; when the drawer is in the open position, locating the window covering in the drawer with the engagement element in a known position relative to the surface; moving the drawer to the closed position; receiving the final dimension of the window covering; wherein the step of automatically moving comprises moving the window covering such that the known second position of the window covering is positioned said distance from the saw; and engaging the window covering with the saw.
 9. The method of claim 8 wherein the step of locating comprises locating the window covering relative to a second engagement member that extends from the surface.
 10. The method of claim 9 wherein prior to the step of automatically moving, retracting said second engagement member.
 11. The method of claim 9 wherein the step of locating the window covering in the drawer comprises allowing the window covering to extend off one end of the drawer.
 12. The method of claim 11 further comprising a housing said housing having a first opening for receiving the drawer, wherein when the drawer is moved to the closed position the drawer closes the first opening, said housing having a second opening that communicates with the first opening, wherein the step of moving the drawer to the closed position comprises allowing the window covering to extend into said second opening and out of said housing.
 13. The method of claim 1 further comprising identifying if the window covering is a head rail or a vanes.
 14. The method of claim 13 further if a head rail is identified, selecting whether the head rail is intended to be mounted as an inside mount or an outside mount.
 15. The method of claim 14 further if a head rail is identified and inside mount is selected, deducting a predetermined length from the final dimension.
 16. The method of claim 13 further if a vane is identified, selecting whether the vane is intended as an inside mount, an outside mount or exact.
 17. The method of claim 16 further if a vane is identified and outside mount or inside mount is selected, deducting a predetermined length from the final dimension; and if an inside mount is selected, deducting a second predetermined length from the final dimension.
 18. The method of claim 1 further comprising cutting window covering and the package simultaneously.
 19. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of automatically moving comprises using an iterative process.
 20. The method of claim 19 wherein the iterative process comprises: a) sensing a second end of the package as it is moved and moving the second end of the package past the saw; b) if the engagement element reaches the distance before moving a predetermined distance, stopping the window covering and cutting the window covering to the final dimension; d) if the engagement element does not reach the distance before moving the predetermined distance, stopping the clamp and cutting a length from the second end.
 21. An apparatus for cutting a window covering comprising: a lateral support surface; a first saw for cutting the window covering positioned at a first end of the lateral support surface; an engagement member for locating the window covering, said engagement member being retractably mounted on the lateral support surface and being positioned at a location offset from the center of said lateral support surface; a clamp assembly comprising a clamping jaw movable to said position where the clamping jaw presses the window covering against the lateral support surface, said clamp assembly being movable relative to the first saw; and a controller for moving the clamp assembly to automatically position a first end of the window covering relative to the first saw.
 22. The apparatus of claim 21 wherein said engagement member is movable between an extend position where it projects beyond the lateral surface and a retracted position where it is disposed behind the lateral surface.
 23. The apparatus of claim 21 wherein said lateral support surface is mounted on a drawer movable between a first open position and a second closed position.
 24. The apparatus of claim 22 wherein said engagement member comprises a pin, said pin engaging a mating hole where the hole is offset from a longitudinal center of the window covering.
 25. The apparatus of claim 23 further including a platform that supports the window covering, said platform being located in said drawer.
 26. The apparatus of claim 23 wherein said clamp assembly is mounted for movement with said drawer.
 27. The apparatus of claim 21 wherein said lateral support surface comprises a plurality of rollers.
 28. The apparatus of claim 21 wherein a first clamp is located adjacent the first saw for holding the window covering when the first saw cuts the window covering.
 29. The apparatus of claim 21 wherein said window covering comprises a package such that the package is cut by the first saw and the second saw.
 30. The apparatus of claim 21 further comprising product identification information in the form of a bar code associated with the window covering. 